GAC VOICES / 21 Jul 2024

30 years in Malaysia

From humble beginnings to energy powerhouse

As GAC Malaysia celebrates its 30-year anniversary, Managing Director Herman Jorgensen outlines a bold vision for the future supporting the country’s energy sector, with a focus on sustainability and strong local partnerships.

Herman Jorgensen Managing Director GAC Malaysia

It is an exciting time to be in business in Malaysia – not least as someone leading GAC’s team at a pivotal time for the nation's shipping, logistics and energy markets.

Over the past 30 years, we have built a strong reputation for excellence and a solid presence in the country with our 17 offices covering 23 ports. But we cannot afford to settle back and enjoy the position that the past three decades has put us in. We must be mindful of the challenges and opportunities we face to continue to grow and succeed.

High energy
The energy sector is a cornerstone of GAC Malaysia's operations and we want to be known as a leading provider of shipping, logistics and marine support for key players developing traditional oil and gas opportunities, as well as renewable and alternative energy. We are targeting engineering, procurement, and construction projects with major energy players by providing comprehensive solutions from a one-stop-shop for permits and mobilisation through to project and marine support, logistics and supply bases, engineering, fabrication and technical services, bunkers and procurement services, demobilisation and transits for the upstream sector in Malaysia and for wider regional developments.

The energy sector cannot be seen only in local terms – support has to be both integrated and international. Having said that, Malaysia is a good base as many key regional decision-makers are based here. We are also closely tracking energy projects across the region together with local GAC offices.

Having previously worked in northern Europe and New Zealand, I can draw on my experience in the energy sector.

I see similarities between the North Sea and Malaysia - both are mature markets in terms of the upstream sector and the necessary infrastructure, providing a strong foundation to build upon. But I see more opportunities in Malaysia and the wider Asia region, so there are exciting times ahead.

Growing
While it is still relatively early days for Asia’s renewable energy sector, it is growing fast and has great potential. As a Group, GAC has learned many lessons from our work on major developments in offshore wind and alternative energy projects in Europe, and we plan to apply that experience to become a leading supporter of renewables in the region.

GAC is actively building its regional presence. We now have a very strong base in Taiwan supporting offshore wind developments and are already positioning ourselves in growth markets like Vietnam.

We are also involved in feasibility studies and establishing supply chains to meet the demands of this emerging market in the region.

Our goal is to ensure seamless connectivity and efficient operations that can support the growing demands of our customers.

Beautiful architecture building exterior city kuala lumpur skyline
Malaysia's capital, Kuala Lumpur

Eye on the future
As we celebrate 30 years of GAC Malaysia, we have to keep our eye on the future – a sustainable future.

With that in mind, we have introduced initiatives to reducing our environmental impact, from recycling programmes, beach cleanups and water projects to repairing/reusing wooden pallets. Our efforts are not just about measuring our carbon footprint but about taking tangible actions that engage our stakeholders and build our reputation as a trusted advisor in sustainability. our sustainability go beyond environmental initiatives is locally focused like working with schools and universities to create local jobs and provide entry into the energy industry. We will continue to innovate and implement initiatives that contribute to a more sustainable future.

GAC Malaysia will continue to forge partnerships with local companies to offer comprehensive solutions tailored to local needs. Our local presence, combined with our global expertise, positions us uniquely to support both local and international clients.

We are well-positioned to overcome the challenges ahead and seize the opportunities that the future holds. By focusing on energy services, sustainability, innovation, local expertise and partnerships, we will continue to drive growth and deliver exceptional value to our clients.

The next chapter for GAC Malaysia promises to be one of transformation and progress, and I am excited to lead our team towards this bright future.

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